Roar primed for clash at Stockland Park

Jon TuxworthWith a great line-up of talent on the Daily’s sports desk, Jon Tuxworth reckons he only gets a call-up when one of the star players is away – as is the case with his sporting exploits. Known affectionately as ‘Splinters’ at high school, his offering from the humble position on the bench is always worth a read.

“The headers and little flick-ons between us are good – Sergio will be the one who flicks it on,” Smits said.

“He holds it up a bit better than me and uses his body well to do little lay-offs.

“I’ll come in short then peel off, the ball will get played into him and then I’ll pick it up off him.

That’s what’s working well at the moment.”

Both players have already found themselves on the scoresheet, with Smits scoring against Brazilian visitors Palmeiras and van Dijk doing likewise in Queensland’s 2-1 Pre-Season Cup loss to Sydney FC last week.

The Roar will be without key players for their second Pre-Season Cup assignment against Wellington at Stockland Park this afternoon.

Former Socceroo captain Craig Moore, experienced defender Josh McCloughan and Hyuk-Su Seo are all unavailable through injury and suspension.

“It gives an opportunity for other players to get 90 minutes under their belt and push their claims to play in the regular season,” Farina said.